posted 11-06-2008 09:35 AM               

What would it be like to visit Mars -- to explore the distinctive, untouched terrain that inspired astronomers and stirred so many sci-fi writers' imaginations? Two highly capable robotic geologists -- Spirit and Opportunity -- made that amazing voyage, and spent the last four years roaming the Red Planet's unique landscape. Thanks to 120 stunning 3-D and color images shot by these rovers, we can come along -- and right now, it's the closest we can get to actually setting foot on Mars. These super-realistic pictures pop off the page, allowing us to see for ourselves the rocks, craters, valleys, and other geologic configurations that define the Martian terrain. Compelling and accessible text guides us on this exhilarating tour, revealing the thrill of each discovery, along with the perils and near misses. Featuring a fold-out flap with embedded 3-D viewer (which actually allows customers to view the three-dimensional images right in the store), it's the perfect gift for any armchair astronomer.

• Hardcover: 160 pages
  
• Publisher: Sterling (November 4, 2008)
  
• ISBN-10: 1402756208
  
• ISBN-13: 978-1402756207

The journey to other worlds continues! Following the release of Mars 3-D comes a stunning three-dimensional tour of our celestial neighbor. Astronomer Jim Bell flies readers to the Moon, just in time to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin's famous first steps on the lunar surface.

After a series of brief essays explaining the history and future of lunar exploration, the volume launches into a spectacular showcase of the best 3-D images available, taken by both robotic and human exploration missions; the pictures shot by the Apollo astronauts on their Moon walk receive special attention. In addition, an artistic selection of non-3D photos appears throughout, along with conceptual designs for future moon-based adventures.

• Hardcover: 160 pages
  
• Publisher: Sterling (June 2, 2009)
  
• ISBN-10: 1402765517
  
• ISBN-13: 978-1402765513